Register to Vote Recently? Add It to Your Facebook Timeline

Like it or not, Facebook is one of the most popular arenas for political discussion (and arguing) in the world. Think about it; nearly one billion people, all with their own views on how their countries should be run. Set aside the fact that your cousin Jed really annoys you with his incessant updates, and your idiot sister doesn’t know what she’s talking about. Facebook is a powerful medium for people to influence other people.

And Facebook wants you to help get out the vote by telling the story of why you registered to vote.

“Starting today, you can add to your timeline that you registered to vote, and share your story about when, where or why you decided to register. If you’re not already registered and want to be, you’ll find a link to your state’s election authority there as well,” says the U.S. Politics and Government team in a post.

All you have to do it visit your Timeline, click on the appropriate spot and choose “life event.” From there, choose “travel & experiences,” and you’ll see the “Registered to vote” event. Enter a date, location, and a brief story behind why you decided to register to vote and click save.

In theory, all of your friends will see that you’ve created this new Timeline event and be inspired to register to vote. Facebook hopes it “will result in a more involved and informed citizenry ahead of Election Day.”

Facebook has gotten a little more political in 2012, partnering with CNN to provide electorate insights throughout the campaign. Last month, the two unveiled the “I’m Voting” app, which allows users to pick candidates and issues that they support, and share that information with their friends. Facebook says that this new Timeline event should work in tandem with the “I’m Voting” app.